The Art of Negotiation

By Steve Adubato, Ph.D.

We all negotiate. We negotiate just about everything. Being a good negotiator is about being a first-rate communicator and empathetic leader. It doesn't simply mean being a good public speaker, but a thoughtful, sensitive and aware communicator and leader who understands and respects other people and the complexity of the process.

Take the Leadership Test

When asked, most folks say that they consider themselves leaders of one sort or another. But leadership is not an absolute thing. It is not black and white. Some days we are better leaders than others. In fact, we demonstrate superior leadership on one specific task and a short time later we fall on our face when up against another. Leadership is relative, and the really great leaders are constantly engaged in self-examination and finding ways to get better.

Training the Trainers

By Steve Adubato, Ph.D.

Many leaders are expected to facilitate internal workshops or training seminars. Accountants lead seminars about new tax laws; lawyers for new courtroom procedures; or doctors regarding the latest clinical findings and its implications for patient care. Only one catch—knowing a subject extremely well is only part of the communication equation when it comes to leading a workshop.

Our Eyes "Speak" Volumes

By Steve Adubato, Ph.D.

The issue of eye contact can’t be overemphasized as a valuable and important communication and leadership tool because it is true that the eyes are the windows to the soul. They communicate something beyond and even deeper than words. That’s why you may not be anxious to do business with someone who can’t look you in the eye. And that’s why we can’t help making negative judgments about people who have shifty or beady eyes. That’s also why it’s so unnerving when someone “rolls” his or her eyes while we’re talking.

Make a Commitment to Effective Leadership

By Steve Adubato, Ph.D.

Most of us make a commitment to better ourselves in some way. For example, we set specific goals to eat healthier, workout more, spend more time with the family or get to bed earlier. But how many of us make a commitment with specific goals to become a more effective leader and communicator?

Can We Talk? (I'm Not So Sure Anymore)

By Steve Adubato, Ph.D.

This column is not about politics - rather it’s about the state of our country. It’s about civility. It’s about the essence of leadership and the need for all of us to keep our minds open to “other” perspectives, information and facts.

Simplicity is a Virtue

By Steve Adubato, Ph.D.

There’s too much information out there and it seems to be getting worse every day. Often people say that the problem in a particular organization is that “more communication is needed.” However, the fact is, it is rarely more communication or information that is lacking, but rather, more effective, relevant and strategic information.